Types Of Visas In New Zealand: Explained

Embarking on a journey to New Zealand starts with selecting the right visa, and we’re here to simplify that choice for you. This article demystifies the various visa types available, ensuring you make an informed decision suited to your needs.

Whether you’re looking to study, work, or just soak in the breathtaking Kiwi landscapes, understanding your visa options is your first step towards a great adventure.

Let’s dive in!

Which New Zealand Visa Is Right For You?

Given the wide range of options available, it is important to select an appropriate New Zealand visa to enjoy a successful stay.

To facilitate the migration process, it is important to ensure that the right visa type and an adequate application are prepared.

Visitor Visa

  1. For citizens of certain countries (known as visa waiver countries), there’s no need to apply for a visitor visa in advance before arriving in New Zealand.
  1. Holding a visitor visa does not grant permission to work in New Zealand.
  1. Visitors initially have a maximum stay of nine months on a visitor visa, with an option to apply for an additional three-month extension, allowing a total stay of up to 12 months.
  1. Within the 18 months before the visa’s proposed expiry, the cumulative time spent in New Zealand should not exceed nine months.

Student Visa

Student Visas are intended for studying in New Zealand for 12 weeks or longer, whether it’s an English language course, primary education, or a tertiary degree.

Limited Visa

The purpose of the limited visa regime in New Zealand is to allow individuals like visitors, students, or workers who are planning on staying for a short time but not permanent residence.

Unlike Visitor and Student visas, the key distinction is that it is not feasible to switch from a Limited Edition Visa to any other visa while in New Zealand.

In addition, holders of such visas are not entitled to any special order from INZ or the Minister and cannot appeal before a court or tribunal except for appeals referred to in sections 194 or 195 before their expiry.

Resident Visas Offer Two Pathways

  • Work to Residence: If you’re employed by an accredited employer, have a job offer from one, and have worked in a Tier 2 Green List in-demand role for 24 months, this visa is applicable.
  • Skilled Migrant Category: If your work in New Zealand meets a specified income threshold or you qualify for points based on your qualifications, you likely have an opportunity to apply for a resident visa, subject to specific conditions.

Family Visa

For those intending to visit New Zealand, your family members have a range of family visa options to choose from, including dependent child, partner, parent, and grandparent visas.

Work Visa

Work Visas come in various types, each with distinct application guidelines.

  • Employment-based visas: Obtainable when securing a job with an employer willing to provide an employment contract. This is granted if no New Zealanders are available for the position or if the job falls within a Skills Shortage category.
  •  Visas for graduates: Post-study work visas enable recent graduates to seek employment and apply for a Resident visa.
  • Other work visas: Numerous alternatives exist, ranging from Working Holiday to Pacific Quota visas. These visas are typically associated with specific citizenships or events.

Children Student Visa

Children of individuals holding work visas may qualify for student visas, enabling them to attend schools in New Zealand.

Citizenship

Becoming a New Zealand citizen offers four paths, with only one applicable to migrants:

  • Citizenship by birth in New Zealand
  • Citizenship by descent
  • Adoption
  •  Citizenship by grant

Note: The term “Citizenship” is commonly used informally when referring to the “Residence Visa,” but it is distinct from actual citizenship.

New Zealand Diplomatic Visa

If you work as a domestic staff member for diplomatic, consular, or official personnel stationed in New Zealand, you can seek a New Zealand Diplomatic Visa. Your application requires endorsement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Upon approval, you can come to New Zealand to perform domestic duties for your employer.

The visa duration aligns with your employer’s posting period in New Zealand. However, if your employment concludes before your employer’s posting ends, you must depart.

Entertainers Work Visa

The Entertainers Work Visa enables you to work in New Zealand’s video, film, or production industry. To be eligible, you need specific skills and experience that are currently needed in the New Zealand entertainment sector.

Aside from meeting identity, health, and character criteria, you must have an offer for entertainment work to apply for this visa.

New Zealand boasts a vibrant entertainment scene, including film, television, theatre, music, and performing arts.

 The Entertainers Work Visa opens doors for you to explore and engage with this dynamic industry.

Long-Term Skill Shortage List Visa

If you’ve been working in New Zealand for over two years with a Long Term Work visa, you’re eligible to apply for a Long Term Skill Shortage List visa.

It’s important to be in New Zealand when applying, and upon receiving residence, you gain the freedom to work and study as you wish.

To meet the criteria, you must have continuous full-time employment in an occupation listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) at the time of your work visa approval or currently on the LTSSL during your residence application.

Post-Study Work Visa

The New Zealand Post Study Work Visa allows you to work in the country for three years after completing your studies there. This visa provides a valuable opportunity to gain practical work experience in your field of study, enhancing your resume and improving your job prospects.

If you hold a degree level 7 or above qualification, you can work for any employer in any job. For qualifications below degree level 7, you can work in a role related to your field of study. It’s important to note that this visa can be applied for only once.

With the Post Study Work Visa, you can apply the knowledge and skills acquired during your studies in a real-world work setting, contributing to both your professional growth and the New Zealand workforce.

Specific Purpose Work Visa

The Specific Purpose Work Visa permits you to come to New Zealand for a specific reason or goal, allowing you the flexibility to stay for the necessary duration to achieve your particular objective. It’s important to show the specific timeframe required for your purpose or event participation. 

Additionally, you must provide proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your stay, including expenses for your sustenance and accommodation.

Supplementary Seasonal Employment SSE Work Visa

The Supplementary Seasonal Employment (SSE) Work Visa is available for individuals already in New Zealand on a student or visitor visa who wish to undertake seasonal work in the horticulture or viticulture industry.

Applicants must be 18 or older, provide evidence of a job offer from an eligible employer, and meet other eligibility criteria. The visa permits engagement in tasks like planting, maintaining, harvesting, or packing crops for a maximum duration of six months from the approval date.

Moreover, applicants have the option to pursue additional studies, with the combined duration of studies not exceeding three months within a 12-month period. This offers flexibility for educational pursuits alongside seasonal employment.

New Zealand Working Holiday Visa

The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa allows young individuals worldwide to explore New Zealand, work, and immerse themselves in the country’s beauty. 

New Zealand collaborates with 45 countries through the Working Holiday Program, welcoming applicants aged 18 to 30 (or 35 in some countries) who have medical insurance and sufficient funds for their stay. The visa also permits studying for up to three months.

While certain countries have no quota restrictions, 30 others have varying quotas. It’s important to note that once you secure the visa, accepting a permanent job offer is not allowed, as the stay is limited to 12 months (or 23 months for individuals from the UK or Canada).

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, provided by New Zealand, is tailored for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in the country. 

This visa is specifically designed for individuals possessing sought-after skills, qualifications, and work experience in the New Zealand labor market. The application process begins with the submission of an expression of interest, detailing the applicant’s experience and qualifications.

Eligibility includes being 55 years or younger and receiving an invitation to apply for residence. Upon successful application, the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa grants the applicant and their family members the opportunity to permanently live, work, and study in New Zealand.

What Are The Fees For New Zealand Work Visas? 

The fees associated with New Zealand work visas vary depending on the specific type of visa and the applicant’s circumstances. Here’s a breakdown to provide a more detailed understanding:

  1. Visa Type: Different work visas in New Zealand may have distinct fee structures. For instance, the fees for an Essential Skills Work Visa might differ from those of a Specific Purpose Work Visa or a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
  1. Application Process: The fees may also vary based on the complexity of the application process. Some visas may require more extensive documentation or additional steps, impacting the overall processing costs.
  1. Duration of Stay: Certain visas may have fees that correlate with the duration of stay. Longer-term visas or those with extended validity periods may involve higher fees.
  1. Applicant’s Circumstances: Fees can be influenced by the applicant’s specific circumstances, such as whether they are applying from within New Zealand or overseas, their age, and whether they are applying individually or as part of a family unit.
  1. Expedited Processing: If an applicant requires expedited processing for urgent situations, an additional fee may be applicable for faster visa processing.
  1.  Health and Character Checks: Some visas may necessitate health and character checks, and the associated costs for medical examinations or police certificates may be the responsibility of the applicant.
  1.  Currency Fluctuations: Keep in mind that fees are often subject to currency fluctuations, and applicants should check the most recent fee schedule to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.

Prospective applicants need to refer to the official website of Immigration New Zealand or consult with the relevant authorities to obtain the most accurate and current information regarding fees for the specific work visa they are interested in.

Can I Study In New Zealand On A Work Visa?

Certainly! You have the opportunity to pursue studies in New Zealand while holding various work visas, such as:

  1. Accredited Employer Work Visa: If you have this visa, you can enrol in educational programs in New Zealand.
  1. Long-Term Skill Shortage List Visa:  This visa allows you to study while working in New Zealand if you meet the eligibility criteria.
  1.  Post-Study Work Visa: After completing your studies, this visa permits you to work and, if you wish, continue your education in New Zealand.
  1. New Zealand Working Holiday Visa: This flexible visa not only allows you to work but also provides the option to engage in short-term studies during your stay.
  1. Talent (Accredited Employer) Resident Visa: As a holder of this visa, you are welcome to pursue educational opportunities in New Zealand.
  1. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: This visa not only grants you residency but also allows you to enrol in educational programs in the country.

In summary, several New Zealand work visas offer the chance to combine work and studies, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience for individuals seeking both professional and educational growth.

Can I Bring My Family to New Zealand on an NZ Work Visa?

Certainly! You have the option to bring your family, including your partner and children, to New Zealand with the following NZ Work visas:

  1.  Accredited Employer Work Visa: This visa allows you to bring your family members along, including your partner and children.
  1. Long-Term Skill Shortage List Visa: You have the opportunity to relocate with your family, including your partner and children, under this visa category.
  1.  Post-Study Work Visa: Family members, including your partner and children, can accompany you to New Zealand while you are on a Post Study Work Visa.
  1.  Specific Purpose Work Visa: This visa category permits you to bring your family, including your partner and children, for the specific purpose mentioned in the visa application.
  1.  Talent (Accredited Employer) Resident Visa: Family members, including your partner and children, can join you in New Zealand under this resident visa.
  1.  Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: This resident visa allows you to bring your family, including your partner and children, to New Zealand when granted residency.

In summary, various NZ Work visas offer the possibility to have your family accompany you during your stay in New Zealand.

Benefits

Certainly! Pursuing studies in New Zealand while holding a work visa comes with several notable benefits:

✅ Professional and Academic Growth: Combining work and studies allows individuals to enhance both their professional skills and academic knowledge, creating a well-rounded skill set.

✅  Financial Independence: The ability to work while studying provides financial independence, allowing individuals to cover living expenses and contribute to their education costs.

✅ Practical Application of Learning: 

Working in tandem with studying offers the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world work environments, reinforcing the learning experience.

✅ Networking Opportunities:

Engaging in both work and studies exposes individuals to diverse networks, fostering valuable connections in both the academic and professional spheres.

✅ Flexibility in Visa Options:

Certain work visas explicitly allow for concurrent studies, offering flexibility for individuals to pursue educational goals while advancing their careers.

✅ Cultural Exposure: 

Immersing oneself in both work and study environments provides a deeper cultural experience, promoting a better understanding of New Zealand’s work culture and educational system.

✅ Extended Stay Opportunities:

Post-study work visas may extend the duration of one’s stay in New Zealand, providing additional time to explore career opportunities and further educational pursuits.

✅ Global Perspective: 

Balancing work and studies in an international setting contributes to a global perspective, enriching individuals with diverse cultural experiences and perspectives.

In summary, the benefits of studying in New Zealand on a work visa encompass a holistic approach to personal and professional development, offering a unique and comprehensive learning journey.

Conclusion

And there you have it an easy-to-understand breakdown of New Zealand’s visa types. With this knowledge, you’re equipped to choose the visa that best fits your journey in this stunning country.

Remember, the right visa not only opens doors to new opportunities but also ensures a smooth transition into Kiwi life.

Happy journeying!

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